essay on paper books are better than ebooks

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Paper Books vs E-Books: Which One Is Better for Reading?

Article 24 Mar 2023 8679 0

In today's digital age, the debate over paper books vs e-books has become a hot topic among readers. While traditional paper books have been around for centuries, the rise of e-books and e-readers has disrupted the publishing industry and changed the way we read. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of paper books and e-books, their impact on the environment, and how they have impacted reading habits and preferences. We will also help readers make an informed decision about which option is better for their personal reading preferences.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Paper Books and E-Books

Paper Books:

• Advantages:
• Physical books provide a tactile and sensory experience that e-books cannot replicate.
• Many readers enjoy the smell and feel of a new or old book, the ability to turn physical pages, and the convenience of using bookmarks.
• Paper books do not require a power source or device to read, making them accessible anywhere.
• Some studies have shown that reading physical books can improve reading comprehension and retention.
• Disadvantages:
• Physical books take up space and can be heavy, making them difficult to carry around.
• They can be expensive to produce, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
• Printing and shipping physical books requires a significant amount of resources, which can impact the environment negatively.
• E-books are lightweight and portable, allowing readers to carry thousands of books in a single device.
• They are generally more affordable than physical books and are easily accessible online.
• E-books are more environmentally friendly as they do not require physical production or transportation.
• They offer features such as adjustable font size, built-in dictionaries, and the ability to highlight and take notes.
• E-books require a power source or device to read, limiting accessibility in areas without electricity or internet access.
• They can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted from devices.
• Some readers prefer the tactile experience of physical books and find e-books less satisfying.

Environmental Impact of Paper Book Production vs E-Book Production

The production of paper books requires a significant amount of resources, including trees, water, and energy. According to The New York Times, it takes an estimated 12 trees to produce one ton of paper. In addition, the production of paper books requires large amounts of water and energy, resulting in greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. On the other hand, e-books have a lower carbon footprint as they do not require physical production or transportation. However, the production and disposal of e-readers and other electronic devices also have environmental consequences. Overall, the environmental impact of paper books vs e-books is complex and requires further research and analysis.

Impact of E-Books on the Publishing Industry

The rise of e-books has disrupted the publishing industry, impacting bookstores, publishers, and authors. According to Forbes, e-book sales have declined since 2015, while paperback sales have seen a steady increase. This trend may be due to the convenience and affordability of e-books, which has resulted in a shift in consumer preferences. However, physical bookstores and independent bookshops have also seen a resurgence in recent years, as some readers prefer the tactile and sensory experience of physical books.

Reading Experience and Preferences

The reading experience and preferences of readers for paper books vs e-books are subjective and vary depending on personal preferences and reading habits. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 65% of American adults had read a print book in the past year, while only 28% had read an e-book. The same survey found that readers who prefer e-books cited convenience, price, and portability as their main reasons for choosing digital reading materials. Meanwhile, those who prefer paper books cited the tactile experience, the ability to physically display books, and the lack of eye strain or fatigue as their primary reasons for sticking with printed materials.

Another factor that can impact a reader's preference is the type of content they are consuming. For example, readers may prefer e-books for genres such as romance, mystery, and thriller, where they may consume a higher volume of books in a shorter period. On the other hand, readers may prefer physical books for genres such as poetry, art, or photography books, where the visual and tactile experience is a significant part of the reading experience.

Accessibility is another key consideration for many readers. E-books are more accessible for people with visual impairments or reading difficulties, as they offer customizable font sizes and text-to-speech options. E-books also offer the convenience of being able to purchase and download books instantly, without having to leave one's home or visit a physical bookstore. However, physical books have the advantage of being able to be borrowed from libraries or shared among friends, which may be more difficult with digital books due to copyright restrictions and digital rights management (DRM) technology.

Cost is another significant factor for many readers. E-books are generally cheaper than physical books, with some e-books being available for free. However, readers should keep in mind that the cost of an e-reader or tablet must be factored in as well. Physical books may be more expensive, but they can also be resold or passed on to others, which can offset their initial cost.

While the convenience and accessibility of e-books are undeniable, they have also disrupted the publishing industry in significant ways. E-books have enabled self-publishing, which has given many authors the ability to publish their work without the backing of a traditional publishing house. This has led to a proliferation of new and diverse voices in the literary world, but it has also created a crowded and competitive marketplace where it can be difficult for authors to get noticed.

Final Thought

In conclusion, both paper books and e-books have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences, reading habits, and the type of content being consumed. Paper books offer a tactile and visual experience that many readers prefer, while e-books offer convenience, affordability, and accessibility. The impact of e-books on the publishing industry and reading habits is significant and ongoing, and it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years.

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E-Books VS Printed Books: An Argumentative Essay

The norm for school reading is heavy, expensive textbooks. But some have proposed that e-textbooks, available through school tablets or laptops, could be a better alternative. A textbook is a book used to formally define concepts in education. An e-textbook contains the same material, but is not bound to a single physical object. A typical print textbook is not only expensive, costing 50 US$ or more, but also cumbersome to house and maintain. E-textbooks, on the other hand, are easily accessible with most devices and are much less expensive. In this paper, we’ll be discovering why e-textbooks are a better investment than cumbersome print textbooks.

One of the largest factors of resource decisions is the cost, and this applies to textbooks in addition to many other things. Print textbooks are a big investment for a school. The price of print textbooks is high simply because of the amount of materials required to make them. E-textbooks, however, are priced solely on their content, and tend to be much less expensive than print textbooks. Another factor is the costs going forward after the initial purchase. A print textbook is vulnerable to rips, stains, and mildew, and because of this print textbooks must be cared for carefully. If a print textbook falls victim to one of these mishaps, often a new textbook is required. E-textbooks, though, are accessible to all of the school upon purchase, and cannot degrade or be damaged. As a result, E-textbooks are very low maintenance.

The accessibility of the material is also important. With a print textbook, there is only a few copies, or sometimes only one, in circulation. Only one student can use a given book at a time. These problems are eliminated in e-textbooks, which can be accessed by anyone with an authorized device, even simultaneously. In addition, print textbooks are sometimes not allowed to leave the school, forcing students to read at school. However, with an e-textbook, a student can access the textbook from anywhere with an Internet connection.

Something that might not be considered as much is engagement. Many print textbooks look dull and boring just from their size, their rough paper, and their minuscule type. E-textbooks have the advantage of not being associated with a physical weight, and being presented through a screen that can be zoomed in to focus on the content. Print textbooks also have a stereotype applied to them that claims that they are flat, dull, and long-winded, which is only reinforced by their physical medium. But e-textbooks? They are accessed through an electronic device, the same devices that are used to plan outings with friends and chat with fellows. Simply by being accessed through a device that is often considered useful, or even fun, e-textbooks have the advantage of being associated with that usefulness.

Some might say that this is a disadvantage, and that being on a such a device would distract the student’s attention from the textbook. This point becomes moot if the device is issued by the school and does not allow access to distracting services such as social media. Others may claim that print textbooks make the student connect more with the real, physical world. It might do so, but since the connection is through a print textbook, the students might end up associating the dullness of such a book with the physical world.

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The Case for Paper: Books vs. E-Readers

Why a good old-fashioned book is better for your mental health..

Posted February 2, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

• Research suggests that comprehension is six to eight times better with physical books than e-readers.
• Physical books help readers absorb and recall content more effectively.
• Turning pages as we read creates an “index” in the brain, mapping what we read visually to a particular page.
• Research shows that, despite the prevalence of technology, most people still prefer print books to e-readers.

Screens are replacing paper when it comes to nearly every aspect of communication, but is it good for our mental health? Research proves the countless mental health benefits of reading , but still most people are choosing screen-time over picking up a book when it comes to entertainment.

Even in schools, gone are the days of buying those stretchy book covers for your heavy textbooks; digital modalities of learning are taking precedence, lightening backpacks but burdening young minds with the challenge of staying on-task in a sea of digital distractions. Reading short blurbs on social media as we scroll inhibits not only our attention span, making lengthy books more arduous for our dopamine -addicted brains to digest, but often waters down the language, using more informal, conversational-style writing that offers much less exposure to rich, brain-boosting vocabulary and concepts.

Research suggests that comprehension is six to eight times better with physical books than e-readers (Altamura, L., Vargas, C., & Salmerón, L., 2023). Though many people find they can read faster on a device, the distractions, like social media scrolling, advertisements, and email notifications, often hinder memory retention. Physical books provide an immersive experience, resulting in readers who absorb and recall the content more effectively.

Holding the weight of a book in your hand, turning the pages, and even highlighting your favorite passages are all experienced in the body. In fact, according to researchers, turning pages as we read creates an “index” in the brain, mapping what we read visually to a particular page, (Rothkopf, Ernst Z.,1971). This is part of what allows the brain to retain the information better when read from a physical book.

From the way you position your body when holding a book, to the way your head and eyes adjust to scan the pages as they turn, there are distinct differences in the way our bodies experience reading a good old-fashioned book. “Print books and the substrate of paper lend an obvious physicality to individual texts, while e-books are not tangible volumes and are differently touched, held, carried and navigated,” wrote Mangen, A., and van der Weel, A. in “The evolution of reading in the age of digitisation: an integrative framework for reading research,” (2016, p. 116–124). “The haptic feedback of a touch screen is different from a paper book, and the implications of such interactions warrant empirical investigations. Studies in experimental psychology and neuroscience show that object manipulation provides spatial information which is crucial for building coherent mental representations of the manipulated object.”

In addition to improving comprehension and providing an immersive, embodied experience, reading physical books offers a uniquely social experience that e-readers miss out on. Whether you’re perusing the shelves at the bookstore, coffee in hand, asking your local librarian for recommendations from their collection, or passing along your copy of a favorite book to a friend, interacting with fellow book lovers is one of the aspects of reading that people most enjoy. Downloading books onto your e-reader bypasses these opportunities for connection.

Perhaps what is most salient is the undeniably strong preference most people have for reading printed books. In one study, 92 percent of students reportedly preferred print books over e-books (Baron, N. S., 2015). There’s something special about holding a book in your hand, admiring the cover art, even appreciating the way your bookmark visually advances with time spent turning the pages.

Altamura, L., Vargas, C., & Salmerón, L. (2023). Do New Forms of Reading Pay Off? A Meta-Analysis on the Relationship Between Leisure Digital Reading Habits and Text Comprehension. Review of Educational Research, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.3102/00346543231216463

Baron, N. S. (2015). Words onscreen: The fate of reading in a digital world. Oxford University Press.

Mangen, A., and van der Weel, A. (2016) The evolution of reading in the age of digitisation: an integrative framework for reading research. Literacy, 50: 116–124. doi: 10.1111/lit.12086 .

Rothkopf, Ernst Z. (1971) Incidental memory for location of information in text. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior. Volume 10, Issue 6: Pages 608-613. ISSN 0022-5371, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-5371(71)80066-X .

Heather Rose Artushin, LISW-CP, is a child and family therapist passionate about the power of reading.

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Ebooks pros and cons - Electronic book vs paper book: which is better?

Source: Image by G_marius.

Have e-readers changed the way you read? We discuss the pros and cons of ebooks. Vote and tell us whether you prefer electronic or traditional paper books.

eBooks vs Paper books

On netivist we love books and we like to discuss them, for instance we are debating the best British crime novelist ,  American writer , and literary fantasy world . Now we turn our attention to the format we prefer to read.

Electronic books (e-books or ebooks) have revolutionized the publishing industry. The success of e-readers such as the Sony Reader, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Amazon Kindle contributed to stimulating the popularity of ebooks. Later, tablets and smart phones have also contributed to this growing trend. eBooks have many advantages over paper books but many people still prefer to read traditional paper books.

However, the origin of the ebook can be traced back to 1930, when Bob Brown, an American writer and businessman, wrote The Redies , a manifesto in which he described:

 "a simple machine which I can carry or move around, attach to any old electric light plug and read hundred-thousand-word novel in 10 minutes if I want to..."

The machine included miniaturized text on a ribbon and a magnifying glass. Its speed was supposed to be controlled by the reader.

In a Spanish teacher, Angela Ruiz Robles, patented the first electronic book reader, called Enciclopedia Mecanica , the idea being to reduce the number of books children had to carry to school. Later, the Italian Jesuit Roberto Busa compiled from 1949 to 1970 an annotated electronic index of Thomas Aquinas' works, which was first stored in a computer and then in a CD-ROM. From the early 1960s Doug Engelbart (Stanford Research Institute) and Andries van Dam (Brown University) develop electronic reading systems which included hyperlinks, indexes and graphics. However, it is Michael S. Hart, who is widely considered as the inventor of the modern ebook His Project Gutenberg launched in 1971, aimed at making ebooks available via the Internet.

Today, the ebook has grown so much that although print books generate more revenues than ebooks, some estimates indicate that in terms of units sold, the ebook may already be ahead of the paper book in the USA. But which of the two formats is superior? Is this just a fad or the ebook will end up completely replacing the paper book?

eBooks pros and cons

eBooks pros:

• Cost effective. Ebooks are cheaper and faster to produce than printed books.
• eBooks are cheaper for users because the cost of producing and distributing additional copies is negligible.
• Thanks to the ebook many new authors can see their works reach the market. Publishing companies were a great barrier many authors never managed to overcome.
• eBooks are environmentally friendly : there is no need to cut down trees.
• Technological advances are making e-readers increasingly cheaper and more comfortable to use. Electronic books allow searches and may help you find parts of the text you are looking for.
• They can be shared with people far away instantly and the owner does doesn't have the risk of losing her copy of the book.
• In a single device you can carry hundreds of books. You can have an entire library with you at all times.
• You save lot of space home.

Cons of eBooks:

• A disadvantage of ebooks it that it is very easy and cheap to copy them illegally. Therefore copyright problems have greatly increased since the advent of the electronic book.
• There are problems with formats due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) issues. When you buy a book for the Amazon Kindle, the book may not be read on your Nook or Sony reader. You may end up tied to a company once you start building your electronic library.
• Computers, tablets and e-readers do not provide the same sensorial experience as with a traditional book. The text on a screen has a different feeling to your eye. The touch of the paper, and even the smell of the book is lost in the case of the electronic book.
• A more traditional engagement with books can very positive for the education of children. Writing on a book and passing the pages back and forth is good for their development.
• Printed books are beautiful and a book shelf is a very nice complement for any room in a house.
• As ebooks are easy and cheap to produce, many authors do not use now the services of professional editors, which would have otherwise, contributed very positively to the overall quality of the work.
• The introduction of the ebook and the problems of "piracy" have created problems from the publishing industry and caused the loss of many jobs.

Watch these videos on the virtues and limitations of ebooks

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Paper Books are Better than E-Books

This essay will present the argument that paper books are superior to e-books. It will discuss the tactile experience, ease of reading, and lack of digital distractions associated with paper books. The piece will also consider the aesthetic and practical benefits of physical books, such as the ability to annotate and the lack of battery dependency. At PapersOwl too, you can discover numerous free essay illustrations related to Book.

How it works

I am not suggesting that e-books are unnecessary or even more harmful. On the contrary, they are practical and modern. To say the opposite is to resist evolution, which has always been a Sisyphean work, and by no means pathetic, but miserable. Here is an e-book, it is indispensable, for example, when traveling, especially if you are limited in luggage, and it is impossible to dispute. I don’t know how many similar arguments can be found, many.

Even I sometimes read from my smartphone, like all normal people.

Sometimes it’s a work necessity, and sometimes it’s common sense. I appreciate it when there is an opportunity to choose from different options. And yet, for me and for many, paper books are preferable. And this is not just a whim, because reading from paper cannot be completely equated with reading from a display. There is evidence from several studies showing that information from paper books is better absorbed. But even this is not the main thing. The main thing is what we want to get from the process itself, from the contemplation of the objectivity, materiality and psychology of the book.

An e-book is not a book! It is a euphemism, figure of speech, which means digital text. Sometimes in “e-books” there are illustrations, perhaps some additional options such as the ability to make notes, and so on. Some manufacturers even offer a page-turning rustle function (God be their judge). But by themselves, e-books are just files.

A paper book is a material object of our level of perception. We can weigh it in our hand, feel it by touch, put it in our bag with us. It has pages, a cover, a spine, a bleed, an endpaper – integral, obligatory parts. All of them can be the subject of design, enter into a special relationship with the text, supplement and expand it. By mentally combining these attributes together, we are talking about the art of the book.

The book simply has to be a piece of art (or design, if you share these concepts). Let’s also cast aside the negative spirit that has stuck to the concept of “thing” and admit: a book is a thing! Like any thing, it can be pleasant, friendly, comfortable, beautiful. Your favorite book will stay with you for a long time. You will read a skillfully published text more attentively, you will love it more, and at the same time its container. After all, you perceive a book with several senses at once, in contrast to digital information, which is available only through sight.

You not only read books with your eyes, but also touch, hear, and even smell. And they are all different! It turns out that this book is available in a wider range of sensations. You don’t think about it when you read it, but it gradually affects the perception of the text. This means that reading electronic media and reading from paper will never be completely equal practices. By the way, every poorly designed and produced book is a nail in the coffin of the printing industry. It is a crime to waste precious wood pulp from deforested forests on ugly books. Even the most devoted adherent of paper will renounce it and switch to reading numbers, if the books are not objects of pleasure, at least aesthetic, if they do not bring joy in the quality of things.

Magic and its death Even though this is the original purpose of the book – to be the bearer of the text – in itself it is something much more. The book is a unique object, to the eyeballs filled not only with information, but with stable symbolic meanings accumulated over the centuries in the collective memory. We can say that any book for the consciousness that perceives it means much more than itself. Books are magical items. They were the main means of preserving and transmitting cultural knowledge, and a respectful and sometimes reverent attitude was brought up to them.

The most powerful millennial cults have been built around the books. Books have penetrated into the very flesh of the civilization of the spirit, have become its sacred part. Therefore, we can perform ritual actions with them. We can swear on the book, guess by it, sacrifice it or set it on fire (regardless of the ethics of the actions performed and the cults mentioned). Digitization means desacralization. The book is no longer an artifact, the magic is dead. The loss of objectivity and, more importantly, of individuality, also reduces the degree of approximation to the text.

The cherished lines that make the heart beat faster remain just a file on a smartphone, a ghostly phenomenon of a microcosm invisible to the eye, a mathematical algorithm that you most likely do not fully understand. You cannot even be completely sure that during the time it was in the undeciphered state on the flash memory, errors did not appear in the text, that it is the same as it was. In this respect, a paper book is much more true to you, it can wear out, but it will retain the content in full accuracy.

The smell of plastic It is interesting to compare the book world with the record industry, which is now experiencing something like a rebirth from the dust. Reading paper is like listening to vinyl. One who is dedicated understands and appreciates the difference with other native speakers. By the way, about the carriers. The phrase “e-book” can also mean a device for reading files. But, interestingly, in this sense, it is falling out of use. It was replaced by the word “reader” and its Russian equivalent “reader”. And the plastic devices themselves, which at first attracted the fact that you can fill in a lot of texts and thus save money, have gone out of fashion. They break, buggy, and break easily. Many users do not buy themselves a new reader if the old one is broken. As a result, most people read from smartphones. You say reading spoils your eyesight? How about reading small print from a small glowing screen?

The Battle for Space In the rejection of paper books, there is often an argument that they take up a lot of space in the home. Yes, they do. But can it be argued that by freeing themselves from books, people have expanded the space for life? No, they immediately filled it with other items – clothing, equipment. Under the guise of liberation from things, an unequal substitution of one for another is made. That which contributes to the development of personality, is ousted from the living space by purely everyday or even redundant, such as, for example, an overly extensive wardrobe. But books contain infinitely many spaces through which your consciousness can travel.

It’s about the same with the cost of buying books. Are you really sure that by saving on them, you will spend money on something more important or necessary for life? When Mr. Alzheimer knocks on your skull at a venerable age, you will not be able to tell him: I have trained my brain with reading all my life, wait outside the door! Everything that you have acquired with the banknotes saved will turn into nothing, into the dust of time, about which there will not even be anything to remember, unlike a good book.

Maybe electronic, but paper here is clearly in a winning position. For example, I remember all my favorite books visually and by touch. Too expensive? Well, first of all, not too much. Go to Amazon and compare at least with prices in developed countries. And in general, a good book cannot be cheap. If this is a well-made publication that is pleasant to pick up and can then be given to someone else to read, then it will be worth its money. You either understand why you need it, or you don’t. Want to read it, but don’t need a paper version – there is always an option to download a figure, thank the progress!

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Paper Books Are Better Than E-Books. (2021, Jul 07). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/paper-books-are-better-than-e-books/

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Ebooks or Paper Books: Your Best Arguments

With the advance of phones, tablets, and ereaders, ebooks have become a popular reading standard. Still, there's something about the feel of an old-fashioned paper book. We asked you which one is better and why, and here are some of the best arguments we heard.

There were a lot of great responses so let's see where you landed.

Ebooks are More Accessible

Ebooks can be read practically anywhere on anything, and MyklFuman points out how easy it is to have your library at hand for whenever there's some waiting to do:

I have a large screen phone (Galaxy S3) so I then always have my books with me. Waiting for the take away to be ready, I read a few pages. Waiting pretty much anywhere, I read. I have been doing so since the Palm Pilot Treo came out... Nice thing with Google books is I can read at my desk on the big monitor then pick up right where I left off on my cell, and visa versa.

CessTHEBest explains how location makes it hard to get certain books, so ebooks are by far the most accessible choice:

I LOVE paper books. But, living in Latin America, e-books have saved my life. The bookstores here have a very small English language selection, and I am just too lazy to read in Spanish. So, E-books have meant no postage, no heavy suitcases full of books, no waiting 4-5 weeks for books from amazon, or lost books.

And some had been dreaming of the accessibility that ebooks finally brought. TheLaughinKipper is one of them:

Ever since the eighties I had been dreaming of replacing those bulky, unwieldly stacks of paper with a thin, light slate that could contain all my library. It has rekindled (pun not intended) my passion for reading like you wouldn't believe.

dr_bombay agrees, and also cites the perks that come along with a lot of ebooks:

i can carry an entire library in my pocket; i can adjust type size, contrast, and color to my liking; i can look up unfamiliar words instantly with the built-in dictionary...

Different Situations Call for Different Things

Our own Whitson Gordon says ebooks all the way, but still makes a solid case for times when a paper book is ideal:

I'm an ebook guy through and through, but my fiancee has a pretty good argument for buying physical books—at least sometimes.

If you're going to the pool or the beach and want to bring a book, it's a lot easier to bring a physical book, since you can leave it alone (to go swimming or whatever) without worrying about it getting stolen. Can't do that with a $100 Kindle. You can also leave it in your car, in your backpack at school, etc.

Paper books are also necessary for certain things. TheRevanchrist mentions one particular situation—going to a book signing—and CaptainJack agrees:

You do have a point about the signed copy. My Wife and many of her author friends have had to resort to signing prints of covers for ebook fans. There really isn't a good way to deal with that without print copies being easily available.

Some of you were die hard paper book readers, but got nudged the other way because of your situation. Wittyname talks about how traveling changed everything:

I bought my Kindle saying that, at worst, I would just use it for flying home for Christmas when I didn't want to carry a bunch of books around but needed more than one to read for the flight and my time at home. But from there I've moved to almost exclusively reading on the Kindle.

It Depends on What You're Reading

Many of you buy certain types of ebooks, but still think paper is the way go for a lot of books. Our own Melanie Pinola has a couple of items on her list that help her determine which to buy:

For me, it depends on the book—how visual it is (graphic novels I like in paper format), whether I'm more likely to race through it (a good novel) or linger and bounce around (poetry), how big it is (I wish the gigantic Robert Moses book was in eBook form), and how well the text was translated to Kindle (I heard bad things about the Game of Thrones digital versions, so went with paper for that).

Sometimes you might not feel like sharing what you're reading with everyone around you. chancyrendezvous points out that ebooks can help prevent embarrassment or strange looks:

No one knows what I'm reading! I'm the Mikey of books, so when someone says, "Hey, CR, read this dinosaur erotica and tell me if it's as awful as it seems it would be," (surprisingly not) or "Someone has to read 50 Cent's book series and it's not going to be me," (it shouldn't be you either, even if the title is Thong on Fire ), I can read in public and no one gives me judgy eyebrows.

And SuperWittySmitty likes classic paper books, but just doesn't want to haul around War & Peace:

I have a Nook and have enjoyed using it- right now I am working my way through War & Peace and it's certainly easier to grab the Nook than carrying around the big fat book.

Some Prefer the Feel and Utility of Paper Books

I personally think the weight and feel of a paper book is hard to beat most of the time, and Charis agrees:

I am still a total paper book lover. It's just satisfying curling up with a book, the smell of the pages, the heft of the book. And there is the classic "Three B test" - bath, bus, bed.

Plus, chitheatergirl points out that it's easy to immediately see how far you really are in a book:

I was Switzerland in this discussion, but the ebook I was reading told me I was 84% finished with the book when the book ended. The remaining 16% was excerpts from the author's other books, an author interview, and a discussion guide. Paper books are far superior when it comes to letting you know your place in a book, and that's why I prefer them.

Others Think People are Just Being Nostalgic

I may be one of those weirdos that likes the smell of a book, but not everyone thinks the same way. DanYHKim is someone who does not think the same way:

People who love paper books will sometimes wax poetic about the unique smell of books. For me, that is the smell of dust mites and silverfish droppings.

Not everyone thinks the "feel" of a book is anything to write home about, either. Michael Bond sees paper books as nothing but a disadvantage:

I don't really get this... nothing about the "feel" of the book is an advantage to me. I used to read some big books, and having to balance that weight so that I don't have to crane my neck was a pain.

The Right Tool for the Right Job

When you boil it all down, you need the right type of book for the right job it seems, but everyone can at least agree that reading is definitely a job that's right. A good majority of you think there's a time and place for both ebooks and paper books. KnightTim isn't up for battle, just reading, despite what his name might suggest:

I'm going to have to say YES. I love them both, my wife and I have several bookshelves in our house and I would not get rid of my books. But I also have and love my kindle paperwhite.

So I think at this point my vote would be 55% e-book and 45% physical book. (I guess I'm not very good at the war part of this post...)

At the end of the day, James T Wood draws a comparison that I'm sure most of us can get on board with:

I think of the physical vs. electronic book as a both-and proposition.

I have both DVDs and a Netflix subscription.

I have both CDs and a Google Music subscription.

I have both physical books and ebooks.

Whatever you prefer to read on, it seems there's no better choice. As long as you get to read, that's a win.

The New York Times

The learning network | are paper books better than e-books.

Are Paper Books Better Than E-Books?

Questions about issues in the news for students 13 and older.

• See all Student Opinion »

Analysts once predicted that e-books would overtake print by 2015. After all, they’re lighter to pack on a trip; they don’t clutter shelves; they don’t weigh down backpacks. Yet, e-book sales have slipped lately, and there are signs that even e-book adopters are returning to print.

Are paper books just better than e-books?

In “ The Plot Twist: E-Book Sales Slip, and Print Is Far From Dead ,” Alexandra Alter writes:

Five years ago, the book world was seized by collective panic over the uncertain future of print. As readers migrated to new digital devices, e-book sales soared, up 1,260 percent between 2008 and 2010, alarming booksellers that watched consumers use their stores to find titles they would later buy online. Print sales dwindled, bookstores struggled to stay open, and publishers and authors feared that cheaper e-books would cannibalize their business. Then in 2011, the industry’s fears were realized when Borders declared bankruptcy. “E-books were this rocket ship going straight up,” said Len Vlahos, a former executive director of the Book Industry Study Group, a nonprofit research group that tracks the publishing industry. “Just about everybody you talked to thought we were going the way of digital music.” But the digital apocalypse never arrived, or at least not on schedule. While analysts once predicted that e-books would overtake print by 2015, digital sales have instead slowed sharply. Now, there are signs that some e-book adopters are returning to print, or becoming hybrid readers, who juggle devices and paper. E-book sales fell by 10 percent in the first five months of this year, according to the Association of American Publishers, which collects data from nearly 1,200 publishers. Digital books accounted last year for around 20 percent of the market, roughly the same as they did a few years ago. E-books’ declining popularity may signal that publishing, while not immune to technological upheaval, will weather the tidal wave of digital technology better than other forms of media, like music and television.

Students: Read the entire article, then tell us …

— Are paper books better than e-books?

— Do they offer a richer, more satisfying reading experience because you can physically hold them and turn the pages?

— Are they better because they are free from technical problems, like low battery power and glitches?

— Do print books carry more emotional or sentimental value because you can touch them and see them on the shelf?

— Or is the story not over yet — and e-books will still take the place of paper books in the long run?

Students 13 and older are invited to comment below. All comments are moderated by Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

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Good e-Reader

Paper Books vs E-Books: The Science Behind the Better Way to Read

21 March 2024 By Markus Reily Leave a Comment

E-books have been around for more than 20 years, and the same goes for the debate whether they are better than paper books. Both formats have their advantages and disadvantages, so when choosing which one to go for, you should consider multiple factors.

Why E-Books May Be a Better Option?

Although paper books provide you with a reading experience which can never be beaten by e-books, the latter may be a more practical choice. Below, we discuss why electronic books may be the better way to read.

An Entire Library at Your Fingertips

One of the main reasons why e-books are a better option is the fact that they are accessible anywhere, anytime. With your e-reader, you can have a whole library at your fingertips, and even gain access to rare books you may not be able to find at physical bookstores.

E-books are easy to carry. While physical books can take a lot of space, which is especially inconvenient when travelling, you can carry multiple e-books on a single device wherever you go. Like a casino app for mobile gamblers, an e-reader is all you need to quench your thirst for reading.

Customizable

Another reason why e-books may be more convenient than their paper counterparts is the fact that you can customize them according to your needs. By adjusting the layout, font size and brightness, you can make an e-book easy on the eyes. This is one of the biggest differences between e-books and paper books, whose appearance you can’t change.

Advanced Features

Besides features that allow customization, e-books also let you use certain elements that can enhance the reading experience. For instance, some e-books come with embedded multimedia or hyperlinks that can help you understand the context better.

At the same time, you can highlight sentences and whole paragraphs, insert comments or bookmark favorite pages. E-books also come with a built-in dictionary you can use if you have difficulties to understand certain words.

Multi-Sensory Reading Experience

You may not be able to feel and smell paper when reading e-books , but that should not be a reason to give up on them. Most of them come with a built-in read-aloud feature. It can provide you with a multi-sensory experience, and enable you to listen to the book if you can’t focus on reading it. It also comes in handy for readers with certain disabilities, such as visual impairments or dyslexia.

Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly Solution

E-books are cheaper as you don’t pay printing costs when buying them. Since no printing is involved, they have a positive environmental impact. It is estimated that a 10-inch-thick tree produces 20 to 30 books with 300 pages each. So, if you choose an e-book over a physical one, you will act in an environmentally friendly way and you can save some money.

Can E-Books Replace Paper Books?

Despite all the advantages of e-books, we are positive that they can never make their physical counterparts redundant. There will always be readers who prefer paper books , at least for nostalgic reasons. If you are one of them, you don’t have to worry. Paper books are here to stay and you will be able to enjoy them even if you occasionally go for an e-book.

Markus Reily

Markus lives in San Francisco, California and is the video game and audio expert on Good e-Reader! He has a huge interest in new e-readers and tablets, and gaming.

E-book vs. Paper Book: Advantages and Disadvantages

What are the similarities and differences between physical and e-books? Find out in this essay sample on e-book vs print book advantages and disadvantages! Get some ideas and inspiration for your paper and learn more about e-book and paper book advantages and disadvantages.

E-book vs Print Book: Advantages and Disadvantages Essay Introduction

E-book advantages & paper book disadvantages, paper book advantages and disadvantages of e-books, e books vs paper books: essay conclusion.

Ever since e-books became a thing, there have been debates on their and paper books’ advantages and disadvantages. Some people believe that e-books will never replace paper ones. E-books are good, but they are gaining popularity at a very high rate which essentially translates to the death of printed publications. It is because having publications in digital format and available to the entire world at the click of a button means they can easily be freely and maliciously circulated over the internet. As such, the writers and publishers will not profit from their works because readers prefer to contact a hacker and get the free e-book rather than buy the more expensive printed text.

Some advantages of e-books over paper books include the fact that they are easy to read, mainly because of the various available functions such as zooming. The e-books are also easily portable using light devices such as compact disks and flash disks. It contrasts with paper books, which are more bulky, notably bigger volumes. E-books are also much easier to read than paper books because accessing a particular item in the publication is defined by the search function.

Besides, paper books are more advantageous than e-books because they do not cause unnecessary eye strain. By contrast, e-books require the reader to constantly stare into bright screens, sometimes leading to tearing eyes due to the strain.

E-books also require the reader to have a specialized digital and battery/electricity-powered device to access the data. If one cannot access a power source, then he/she cannot read the book. Paper books do not have this constraint as they can be accessed at any time, provided the lighting conditions are favorable for reading. E-books are also prone to destruction by viruses and bugs compared to paper books which can easily be protected from damage.

With the demand for pirated e-books over 54% in the United States, authors are gradually losing out on earnings from their works. If not well taken care of, this problem will eventually lead to the de-motivation of writers and the decline of the publishing industry in general. E-books are primarily software functions that must be hosted on computers or sold as independent products that digital readers can access.

This presentation in forms can easily be transferred from one machine to another, making them more prone to the deeds of hackers and pirates. With the world gradually becoming a global village owing to the spread of internet connections, pirates can easily distribute cheaper versions of e-books by providing cracks to counter the need for access codes.

The security of e-books and their genuine marketing is the primary factor countering the development of this technology. In order to address this issue, the publishers must find a proper team of computer specialists to develop incorruptible ways of safeguarding the sanctity of their products.

It includes the development of difficult-to-crack security codes and one-time-use passwords for accessing e-books. The law-enforcement agencies should also ensure that they constantly monitor online activities in order to arrest criminal activities such as e-book pirating before they become widespread.

In conclusion, even with e-books gaining immense popularity, they face numerous serious challenges that have prevented them from being appreciated as a potential threat to paper books.

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E-books vs Paper Books Essay & Paragraph

Table of Contents

By: Haque | For class 9-12/SSC-HSC | 04-06-’22

Introduction: The use of computers is growing day by day in every sort of work. Now computers are being used in many educational institutions as a medium of education. Many people believe that computers can and should replace pens and pencils. Moreover, e-books or electronic books are better than paper books.

Advantages of E-books: E-books or electronic books have some advantages. First , e-books or electronic books are easily transferable from one computer to another computer. Second , users can store and find e-books from computers more easily. Third , it is possible to modify, enlarge the view or put visual effects on e-books. Fourth , writing on a computer can be more legible and clear, as a man with illegible handwriting can use the computer to type things clearly. Finally , computers can stimulate a man’s imagination quite perfectly. If one can imagine something, he can see the thing on the computer if he has the technological know-how.

Disadvantages of E-books: In fact, there are some disadvantages of e-books and advantages of paper books. First of all , looking at printed books creates less pressure on the eyes. As a result many people still like to read books or printed paper rather than things on the computer. Secondly , the best way to teach children ‘The Three R’s or basic education is still pen and paper . It is easier and more convenient to teach students with pen and paper. It is not possible to teach handwriting on a computer. Thirdly , often a paper book can be more durable and dependable than a computer soft copy. Computer data can be lost very easily due to malfunction of the computer or attack of computer viruses or worms as there are thousands of viruses and worms nowadays. Even many new viruses are created by crooked programmers every day. Fourthly , It is easier to take care of books, on the other hand, people having special training and technical background are required for storing and restoring e-books. Fifthly , Working with a computer for an extended period of time can cause many health hazards such as muscle stiffness, backache, and the problem with eyesight. At last, it is also argued that holding a book with a beautiful cover, printed pages and even the smell that emanates from a printed book has a certain charm.

Conclusion: I, myself, am accustomed to using both the computer and traditional means of education like a pen, paper , and printed books. Still, I feel more comfortable reading a book than reading an e-book on the screen of a computer, because I can handle a book with ease and carelessly. I can lie down while reading a book in my hand, and I can write in a book with my pen, I can put my book in a small travel bag and read while traveling on a train. Another important thing is that a hand-written book, letter, or postcard has a personal touch that cannot be felt in the case of an e-mail message or e-book. All these matters are very important to me. That is why I will always prefer a paper book to an e-book and traditional methods to electronic media for imparting education.

Related Post: My Favorite Book Essay & Paragraph

An Argumentative Essay on E-books vs Paper Books: Advantages and Disadvantages

By: Haque | For class 7-8/JSC | 04-06-’22

Introduction

The debate between e-books and paper books has been ongoing for years, with both formats having their own set of advantages and disadvantages. E-books, also known as electronic books, are digital versions of traditional paper books that can be read on a variety of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. On the other hand, paper books are physical copies of a book that are made of paper and can be held and flipped through. In this essay, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of both e-books and paper books to determine which format is the better choice for readers.

Advantages of E-books

One of the main advantages of e-books is their portability. E-books can be stored on a variety of electronic devices, which are lightweight and easy to carry around. This makes it convenient for people to access and read books while on the go. Additionally, e-books do not take up physical space, making them ideal for individuals with limited storage space.

Another advantage of e-books is their accessibility. Many e-books are available for free or at a reduced cost through online platforms such as Project Gutenberg and the Amazon Kindle Store. In addition, e-books are often available in multiple languages, making them more accessible to a global audience.

E-books also have a number of environmental benefits. They do not require the cutting down of trees to produce, and they save energy in the printing and transportation process. Furthermore, e-books can be easily shared, reducing the need for multiple copies of the same book.

Disadvantages of E-books

Despite these advantages, e-books also have some disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages of e-books is the lack of physicality. Many people find the experience of holding and flipping through a physical book to be more enjoyable than reading an electronic version. Additionally, e-books can cause eye strain and headaches due to the glare of electronic screens, which can be particularly problematic for individuals who spend a lot of time reading.

Another disadvantage of e-books is the potential for technical issues. Electronic devices can break or malfunction, which can result in the loss of all the e-books stored on them. Additionally, e-books are dependent on the availability of power and internet connectivity, which may not always be possible.

Advantages of Paper Books

On the other hand, paper books have their own set of advantages. One of the main advantages of paper books is their tactile experience. Many people find holding and flipping through a physical book to be more enjoyable than reading an electronic version. Additionally, paper books do not require power or internet connectivity to be read, making them ideal for individuals who prefer to read while traveling or in remote locations.

Another advantage of paper books is that they have a certain timelessness to them. They can be passed down through generations and hold a certain sentimental value that e-books cannot provide.

Disadvantages of Paper Books

Despite these advantages, paper books also have some disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages of paper books is their physicality. They take up a lot of space and can be heavy to carry around. Additionally, paper books are not as eco-friendly as e-books, as they require the cutting down of trees to produce.

Another disadvantage of paper books is that they can be quite expensive. Prices can vary depending on the author, publisher, and edition of the book, which can make it difficult for some individuals to afford.

In conclusion, both e-books and paper books have their own advantages and disadvantages. E-books offer convenience, portability, and environmental benefits, while paper books provide a more tactile reading experience and timelessness. However, e-books also have the potential for technical issues, and can cause eye strain, headaches and it’s dependent on the power and internet connection. On the other hand, paper books take up physical space, can be heavy to carry around and not eco-friendly. Ultimately, the choice between e-books and paper books is a personal one, and readers should consider their own preferences and reading habits when making a decision. Some people prefer the convenience and portability of e-books, while others prefer the tactile experience and timelessness of paper books. Ultimately, both formats have their own unique benefits and it’s up to the individual reader to decide which format they prefer.

E-books vs Paper Books Paragraph, 150 Words

The use of computers is growing day by day in every sort of work. Now computers are being used in many educational institutions as a medium of education. Nowadays e-books or electronic books are available and are being used everywhere. E-books or electronic books have some advantages. First, e-books or electronic books are easily transferable from one computer to another computer. Second, users can store and find e-books from computers more easily. Third, it is possible to modify, enlarge the view or put visual effects on e-books. Fourth, writing on a computer can be more legible and clear, as a man with illegible handwriting can use the computer to type things clearly. Finally, computers can stimulate a man’s imagination quite perfectly. If one can imagine something, he can see the thing on the computer if he has the technological know-how. In this way, the computer has made education easier and more accessible for all.

By: Haque | Words: 380 | 9-12/SSC-HSC

E-books, or electronic books, have been gaining popularity in recent years as a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper books. However, the debate between e-books and paper books is ongoing, with both formats having their own advantages and disadvantages.

One of the main advantages of e-books is their portability. E-books can be stored on a variety of electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and e-readers, which are lightweight and easy to carry around. This makes it convenient for people to access and read books while on the go. Additionally, e-books do not take up physical space, making them ideal for individuals with limited storage space.

In conclusion, both e-books and paper books have their own advantages and disadvantages. While e-books offer convenience, portability, and environmental benefits, paper books provide a more tactile reading experience and are not dependent on electronic devices or internet connectivity. Ultimately, the choice between e-books and paper books is a personal one, and readers should consider their own preferences and reading habits when making a decision.

About the Author

A teacher, writer and blogger, started allparagraph noting students search online for paragraphs on various topics, short and simple essays , edifying stories and other materials of study . In composing these lessons we have tried to use as simple language as possible, keeping young students in mind. If you find any text inappropriate, please let us know so we can make it more useful through necessary corrections and modifications. Thank you!

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Watch CBS News

Books vs. e-books: The science behind the best way to read

By Amy Kraft

December 14, 2015 / 6:00 AM EST / CBS News

While browsing the bookstore to buy a gift for that special someone (or yourself), you may be faced with a tough decision: e-books or the old-fashioned kind? Each one has its pros and cons, and choosing the best option depends on a number of factors.

Some of the practical advantages of going digital are obvious: A portable little e-reader can carry an entire library wherever you go, which is great for travelers or those who always want a choice of reading material.

On the other hand, research has been stacking up to show that reading on paper has a number of benefits, too. Plus, there's the nostalgia factor .

"First and foremost, consider the person and their lifelong preferences," Dr. Matthew H. Schneps, director of the Laboratory for Visual Learning, a collaboration between the University of Massachusetts Boston and MIT, told CBS News in an email. "Some people absolutely love the look, smell, and feel of the classical book held in the hand, and such people may not want to give up the sensory experience of reading from a paper book. If the recipient of your gift is someone who is adventurous when it comes to gadgets, but otherwise doesn't read much using traditional books, giving the gift of an e-reader can be a life-changing experience for them."

Here's a look at some of the science to consider before you spring for a Kindle, a Nook or a stack of new hardcovers.

Young, reluctant readers prefer e-readers

A 2014 study published in the journal Library & Information Science Research found that out of 143 10th grade students, most preferred e-readers . Boys and those who did not care much for reading also shared a strong preference for e-readers.

"An e-reader has more in common with the electronic devices that young people use all the time, like smartphones or iPads, than a paper book, when it comes to turning of pages, the possibilities of adjusting font size, etc.," lead author of the study, Åse Kristine Tveit, told CBS News in an email.

Reading on paper may boost retention

Several small studies suggest that reading on paper instead of an electronic screen is better for memory retention and focus. The Guardian reported on an experiment from Norway where people were given a short story to read either on a Kindle or in a paperback book; when they were quizzed later, those who read the paperback were more likely to remember plot points in the right order.

"When you read on paper you can sense with your fingers a pile of pages on the left growing, and shrinking on the right," the lead researcher, Anne Mangen, of Norway's Stavanger University, told the Guardian. "You have the tactile sense of progress ... Perhaps this somehow aids the reader, providing more fixity and solidity to the reader's sense of unfolding and progress of the text, and hence the story."

Paper suits readers with sleep problems and eye strain

High levels of screen luminance from an electronic device can contribute to visual fatigue, a condition marked by tired, itching, burning eyes.

There are also potential considerations for those reading e-books on light-emitting e-readers at night (although a number of e-readers do not use light-emitting screens), Dr. Margaret K. Merga, a reading and education specialist in Australia, told CBS News in an email. "Artificial light exposure from light-emitting e-readers may interfere with users' ability to sleep , ultimately leading to adverse impacts on health."

A 2014 study published in the journal PNAS found that reading an e-book before bedtime decreased the production of melatonin, a hormone that preps the body for sleep. E-books also impaired alertness the following day.

E-books help the visually impaired

Individuals with poor eyesight or reading disorders like dyslexia can benefit more from e-books because they provide a range of options for changing the text size and spacing of lines. A 2013 study in the journal PLOS One observed reading comprehension and speed in 103 high school students with dyslexia. The study found that people with dyslexia read more effectively, and with greater ease, when using the e-reader compared with reading on paper.

Schneps, who was the lead author on the paper, said, "What made the difference was the ability of the device to display lines of text that were extremely short (about two or three words per line), as well as its ability to space out the text. When these people read using the modified formatting, their reading instantly improved."

His team has a website where people can preview the effects of some of these features before making a purchase. Try out the interactive tips at readeasy.labvislearn.org .

A fondness for books

Many book-lovers still prefer the traditional option and value the tactile sensation of a bound paper book. "Paper books are, as a rule, very well designed, they look and smell good, and they carry with them a more human touch," Tveit said.

In Merga's experience with students in Australia, avid readers also tend to prefer reading on paper. While conducting the West Australian Study in Adolescent Book Reading (WASABR), Merga and colleagues found that students preferred reading paper books. "One student described this attitude as a preference to 'own something (rather) than just use it,'" Merga said.

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A Speech on “What Is Better: Paper Books or E-Books?” in English

What is better: paper books or e-books.

Good morning everyone, and welcome to today’s event. I deem it my extreme pleasure to address this gathering about something that has been discussed across many platforms by now; what is better: Paper books or e-books? Even though the debate regarding this has been going on for many years now, and no one side is winning, it hasn’t ever stopped being one of the main topics of debate since e-books became a part of the mainstream.

Paper books have their own place among the readers from the older times, and even some of the new age readers have an affinity towards paper books. The main point where paper books overpower e-books is the feeling that the physical presence of a book is able to provide to its readers.

Some readers prefer to have the book in hand so that it completes the feeling of having a good time spent reading, and on the other hand, some readers prefer a compact and comfortable style over the original feeling, and they prefer to use e-books. A major point where e-books overpower and takeover the pros of paper books is the ease of carrying many books with you.

Carrying a lot of books while traveling may not seem like a feasible idea, and due to the same reason, the readers prefer to switch to e-books as, on a single device, one can carry a wide variety of books. Some genres like travel books and recipe books are better while they are on paper as the display of pictures is better on paper compared to that of e-books.

Also, most people find it difficult to find the right sort of e-book device, and the cost-effectiveness of the e-book might not be feasible for everyone to buy, and they automatically prefer paper books over e-books.

Another area where e-books beat paper books is the availability and accessibility because paper books often go out of stock and you have to wait for them to be delivered to you, whereas the electronic version of a book doesn’t really go out of stock and you can download it in minutes, but on the other hand, the device might act as a hindrance in the process of continuous reading, as the capacity of the battery plays a huge role of in it.

Paper books hold your focus for a longer period of time, making it easier for you to concentrate while reading a paper book. Also, e-books have the advantage of having inbuilt dictionaries in them where you can easily look up a word without disrupting much of your reading.

In conclusion, reading is a very personal choice of activity; hence, the method of reading is also one’s own choice. On the one hand, many might find the pros of paper books leading the pros of e-books; on the other hand, another group might not share the same views, and at the end of the day, it is a choice that one has to make on their own.

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“Business, marketing, and blogging – these three words describe me the best. I am the founder of Burban Branding and Media, and a self-taught marketer with 10 years of experience. My passion lies in helping startups enhance their business through marketing, HR, leadership, and finance. I am on a mission to assist businesses in achieving their goals.”

4 thoughts on “A Speech on “What Is Better: Paper Books or E-Books?” in English”

I love this thanks ?

ITS PAPER BOOKS CAUSE IF IT TOOK TIME LET IT TAKE, BUT BY E-BOOKS WHAT HAPPENS IS THAT IT AFFECTS OUR EYE RETINA….

NICE DEBATE BY THE WAY

It is useful for English speech competition

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7 reasons why ebooks are better than printed books, and where to download new titles to read right now

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• I love reading ebooks because I can download them in a matter of minutes, they're more portable than physical books, and I don't have to go to the store to buy them or wait for them to be delivered.
• Ebooks are also often available on sale for as little as $1 to $4 , and I can even access many of them for free through my local library and other avenues .
• I didn't always love ebooks — I used to think that they were terrible, in fact, but when I started reviewing e-readers as a tech reporter about six years ago, I discovered that I actually love ebooks.
• Now, I almost exclusively read ebooks on the Amazon Kindle Oasis (8GB) and all the other e-readers I review and test.
• If you're curious to learn more about all the e-readers I've tested, check out our guide to the best e-readers , my guide on how to use a Kindle , and my review of the Kindle Paperwhite .

I have always been a book worm. When I was eight, I even won an award for "being an avid, spontaneous reader" (my reward was a book — a beautifully illustrated version of " The Secret Garden " by Frances Hodgson Burnett).

Growing up, my room was full of shelves upon shelves of paperbacks and hardcovers. I kept a journal to remember all the books I had read. I scorned people who bent the corners of pages instead of using a bookmark, I couldn't imagine marking up a book with a pen or highlighter, I hated when book spines cracked or covers bent.

When ebooks came on the scene, I thought they were ridiculous. Why would I want to read on a digital device when I could hold a lovely physical book, when I could smell the pages and have the satisfaction of turning real pages? I was, in short, a book fanatic.

I tell you all this because I'm never not surprised that I am now an ebook evangelist.

It all started when I (accidentally) became a tech reporter and I started to review e-readers. At first, I disliked having to test them and eagerly awaited going back to my paperbacks, but then I started traveling a lot for work and something clicked: Ebooks are good!

Ebooks vs. books: Why are ebooks better?

• They are much more portable than physical books, so you can carry dozens if not hundreds or thousands of them around with you on a device that weighs less than half a pound.
• You can download them in a matter of minutes so you don't have to wait for them to be delivered if you ordered them online.
• You don't have to go to the store to buy them.
• They are never out of stock because they are digital files.
• You can get many ebooks for free from Project Gutenberg , Amazon , and your local library .
• Ebooks often go on sale, so you can get bestsellers for $1 to $5. You can follow BookBub for deal alerts.
• They come with fun features like sharing highlighted quotations on social media, looking up words in the dictionary as you read, digital bookmarks, and much more.

Convinced yet? You should be! Now that I've got you, here's some more information on where to buy ebooks, where to get free ebooks, and which e-readers are the best ones.

Where to buy ebooks

You can read ebooks with or without an e-reader — all you need is a smartphone or tablet. Here is a list of places where you can buy ebooks:

• Amazon is the obvious choice. The Kindle Store has millions of ebooks, including bestsellers, exclusives, and classics. 
• Kobo is the other main alternative to Amazon's Kindle Store. It also has millions of ebooks, including all the best sellers you could want.
• Barnes & Noble's Nook Store has a large selection of ebooks, too. You can read them in the Nook app for iOS or Android.
• Apple's Books Store  is another great option for anyone who wants to read on their iPad or iPhone and doesn't think they'll ever get an e-reader.
• The Google Play Book Store is great for Android users who aren't interested in buying an e-reader, either.

You can also check out ebook subscription apps like Scribd and Kindle Unlimited , both of which I've tried personally and love. Essentially, for a flat rate of about $12 a month, you can read as many ebooks as you want. Scribd also offers magazines and audiobooks.

Where to download free ebooks

It's easy to find free ebooks from a variety of sources. My favorite avenue is the Libby app from Overdrive, which gives me access to all the ebooks I can borrow from my local library. Although I sometimes have to wait for a title to be available, it's a wonderful resource.

When it comes to classics, you can get many of them free from Amazon or Project Gutenberg. I've used both often.

• Amazon offers thousands of classic ebooks (like "Pride and Prejudice") for free.
• For Prime subscribers, Amazon's Prime Reading Library is another great resource for free ebooks.
• You can also borrow ebooks from the Kindle Lending Library if you own a Kindle e-reader.
• Project Gutenberg has around 57,000 free ebooks, including classics like "Pride and Prejudice," "The Odyssey," "Moby Dick," and more.
• Overdrive and its app Libby ( iOS and Android ) give you access to free ebooks that you can borrow from your local library.

Guillermo Garzon/Business Insider

What is the best e-reader .

I have strong opinions about e-readers . I personally think the Amazon Kindle Oasis (8GB) is worth its high cost of $280. However, I fully acknowledge that's not a reasonable price for most people (I just read too much and can't live without page-turning buttons). Most people will be more than happy with the mid-range Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2018) or the basic Amazon Kindle.

If you prefer to have an e-reader from a company that's not Amazon, Kobo's e-readers are excellent. I like the budget-friendly Kobo Clara HD , the waterproof Kobo Libra H2O , and the large-screened Kobo Forma .

Now go forth and read ebooks!

Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Ielts essay 484 - people are choosing to read e-books rather than paper books, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, in recent years, more and more people are choosing to read e-books rather than paper books..

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Essay 10: Ebooks – Advantages and Disadvantages

With the rise of Ebooks comes the decline of paper books. Some people see this as a good step forward while others do not. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Sample response 1.

Over the past decade, technology has revolutionized almost every walk of life. One such innovation has been Ebooks which are increasingly becoming popular and replacing paper-based books. Many considered it a positive development because of the convenience they offer and environment-friendliness; however, there are others who deem the trend negative because of harmful effects on health and difficulty in maintaining focus for the reader.

The foremost benefit of electronic books is that they are extremely easy to handle and carry. For instance, one can store hundreds of books on his tablet or smartphone, and travel while reading comfortably without facing the hassle of lifting heavy books. In addition to that, these books are contributing to efforts to tackle climate change. Papers that are used in conventional books are made from wood, and have over the years, led to massive deforestation. With digital books becoming popular, a significant drop of 23% in deforestation has been noted over the past decade, as indicated by a report published in Daily Times.

However, there are drawbacks to this trend of using digital copies over paper ones. One major demerit is that such books affect readers’ visual health adversely. That is to say, if a reader is exposed to a screen for an extended duration, he may develop eyesight issues because of excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Additionally, it is also a fact that reading a book on a smart gadget, for instance, a smartphone comes with numerous distractions from social media and other applications. On the contrary, paper-based books are neither associated with eyesight issues, nor any distractions.

To conclude, there are a few disadvantages of e-books like distractions from social media applications and harmful effects on eyesight; but them being pro-environment and easy to carry, they are attracting more people every passing day.

Sample Response 2

In recent years, Ebooks have gained immense popularity, and this has led to a decline in the demand for paper books. While some individuals perceive this as a positive development, others view it as negative. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the trend toward e-books.

On the one hand, Ebooks offer several benefits over traditional paper books. Firstly, they are more convenient and portable. With e-books, one can carry an entire library with them on a single device, whereas with paper books, it is not possible to carry more than a few books at a time. Secondly, e-books are often cheaper than paper books, making them more accessible to a wider range of readers. Additionally, e-books are more environmentally friendly, as they do not require paper or ink and do not contribute to deforestation or pollution.

On the other hand, the decline of paper books has some disadvantages. Firstly, many people still prefer the tactile experience of reading a physical book, as they enjoy the smell and feel of the pages. Secondly, some people argue that e-books do not offer the same level of engagement as paper books, as the lack of physical presence can make it difficult for readers to connect with the story. Finally, the shift towards e-books could lead to the closure of traditional bookstores and libraries, which are important cultural institutions in many communities.

In conclusion, the rise of Ebooks has both advantages and disadvantages. While e-books offer greater convenience, affordability, and environmental benefits, they may lack the same level of engagement and cultural significance as paper books. It is up to individuals to decide which format they prefer and to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each. Ultimately, the shift towards e-books is a reflection of the changing nature of reading habits and technological advancements in the digital age.

Sample Response 3

In recent years, the popularity of Ebooks has grown exponentially, leading to a decline in the use of paper books. While some individuals view this trend as a positive step forward, others are more skeptical. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this trend.

On the one hand, Ebooks offer several advantages over traditional paper books. First and foremost, e-books are more convenient to carry around. With a tablet or e-reader, individuals can have access to an entire library of books in one compact device. This portability allows individuals to read books on the go, without having to carry around heavy paper books. Additionally, e-books are often more affordable than paper books, which is a significant advantage for those on a tight budget. Finally, e-books are more environmentally friendly than paper books, as they require no physical paper or ink.

On the other hand, there are also several disadvantages to the rise of e-books. Perhaps the most significant disadvantage is the impact that e-books can have on physical bookstores. As more and more individuals switch to Ebooks, physical bookstores may struggle to stay afloat. Additionally, e-books require a significant initial investment, as individuals need to purchase an e-reader or tablet. While the cost of e-books may be lower in the long run, this initial investment can be a barrier for some individuals. Finally, some individuals argue that reading an e-book simply does not compare to the experience of reading a physical book. They argue that the tactile experience of holding a book and turning its pages is an integral part of the reading experience that cannot be replicated with an e-reader.

In conclusion, while Ebooks offer several advantages, such as convenience, affordability, and environmental sustainability, there are also several disadvantages to their rise in popularity. These include their potential impact on physical bookstores, the initial investment required to purchase an e-reader or tablet, and the loss of the tactile experience that comes with reading a physical book. Ultimately, whether one views this trend as positive or negative depends on their personal preferences and priorities.

Sample Response 4

The advent of e-books has brought about a marked decline in the usage of traditional paper books. While some individuals perceive this trend as a step in the right direction, others remain apprehensive. In this essay, I will explicate the pros and cons of this development.

On one hand, e-books are advantageous for a number of reasons. Firstly, e-books are far more convenient than paper books, as they allow for the storage of thousands of books in one small device. This not only reduces the physical burden of carrying a bulky book but also makes reading on the go more feasible. Moreover, e-books are generally more cost-effective than paper books, which can be especially beneficial for students who require a large number of books. Furthermore, e-books are environmentally friendly, as they reduce the need for paper, which in turn reduces deforestation and pollution.

On the other hand, the rise of e-books has a few significant drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the impact on traditional bookstores, which may be forced to shut down due to the increasing popularity of e-books. This would not only result in job losses but would also have a detrimental effect on communities, as bookstores often serve as cultural hubs. Additionally, e-books require an initial investment in an e-reader or tablet, which can be a barrier for individuals who are unable to afford such a device. Furthermore, some individuals argue that the experience of reading a paper book, with its tactile sensation, cannot be replicated by an e-reader or tablet.

In conclusion, while Ebooks provide numerous benefits, including convenience, affordability, and eco-friendliness, there are also a few significant drawbacks to this trend, such as the potential impact on traditional bookstores, the initial investment required to purchase an e-reader, and the loss of the tactile sensation of a physical book. Ultimately, the decision of whether to embrace e-books or continue with paper books rests with each individual, based on their priorities and preferences.

Did you like these sample responses? Read more here:

• Spoken communication is always more powerful than written communication. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that children should learn how to grow food and cook with it in their lessons. What is your opinion about that?
• Some people believe that teenagers should concentrate on all school subjects. But others believe that teenagers should focus on the subject that they are good at or that they find the most interesting. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

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The Reading Brain in the Digital Age: The Science of Paper versus Screens

E-readers and tablets are becoming more popular as such technologies improve, but research suggests that reading on paper still boasts unique advantages

By Ferris Jabr

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In a viral YouTube video from October 2011 a one-year-old girl sweeps her fingers across an iPad's touchscreen, shuffling groups of icons. In the following scenes she appears to pinch, swipe and prod the pages of paper magazines as though they too were screens. When nothing happens, she pushes against her leg, confirming that her finger works just fine—or so a title card would have us believe. The girl's father, Jean-Louis Constanza , presents "A Magazine Is an iPad That Does Not Work" as naturalistic observation—a Jane Goodall among the chimps moment—that reveals a generational transition. "Technology codes our minds," he writes in the video's description. "Magazines are now useless and impossible to understand, for digital natives"—that is, for people who have been interacting with digital technologies from a very early age. Perhaps his daughter really did expect the paper magazines to respond the same way an iPad would. Or maybe she had no expectations at all—maybe she just wanted to touch the magazines. Babies touch everything . Young children who have never seen a tablet like the iPad or an e-reader like the Kindle will still reach out and run their fingers across the pages of a paper book; they will jab at an illustration they like; heck, they will even taste the corner of a book. Today's so-called digital natives still interact with a mix of paper magazines and books, as well as tablets, smartphones and e-readers; using one kind of technology does not preclude them from understanding another. Nevertheless, the video brings into focus an important question: How exactly does the technology we use to read change the way we read? How reading on screens differs from reading on paper is relevant not just to the youngest among us , but to just about everyone who reads—to anyone who routinely switches between working long hours in front of a computer at the office and leisurely reading paper magazines and books at home; to people who have embraced e-readers for their convenience and portability, but admit that for some reason they still prefer reading on paper; and to those who have already vowed to forgo tree pulp entirely. As digital texts and technologies become more prevalent, we gain new and more mobile ways of reading—but are we still reading as attentively and thoroughly? How do our brains respond differently to onscreen text than to words on paper? Should we be worried about dividing our attention between pixels and ink or is the validity of such concerns paper-thin? Since at least the 1980s researchers in many different fields—including psychology, computer engineering, and library and information science—have investigated such questions in more than one hundred published studies. The matter is by no means settled. Before 1992 most studies concluded that people read slower, less accurately and less comprehensively on screens than on paper. Studies published since the early 1990s , however, have produced more inconsistent results: a slight majority has confirmed earlier conclusions, but almost as many have found few significant differences in reading speed or comprehension between paper and screens. And recent surveys suggest that although most people still prefer paper—especially when reading intensively—attitudes are changing as tablets and e-reading technology improve and reading digital books for facts and fun becomes more common. In the U.S., e-books currently make up between 15 and 20 percent of all trade book sales. Even so, evidence from laboratory experiments , polls and consumer reports indicates that modern screens and e-readers fail to adequately recreate certain tactile experiences of reading on paper that many people miss and, more importantly, prevent people from navigating long texts in an intuitive and satisfying way. In turn, such navigational difficulties may subtly inhibit reading comprehension. Compared with paper, screens may also drain more of our mental resources while we are reading and make it a little harder to remember what we read when we are done. A parallel line of research focuses on people's attitudes toward different kinds of media. Whether they realize it or not, many people approach computers and tablets with a state of mind less conducive to learning than the one they bring to paper.

"There is physicality in reading," says developmental psychologist and cognitive scientist Maryanne Wolf of Tufts University, "maybe even more than we want to think about as we lurch into digital reading—as we move forward perhaps with too little reflection. I would like to preserve the absolute best of older forms, but know when to use the new." Navigating textual landscapes Understanding how reading on paper is different from reading on screens requires some explanation of how the brain interprets written language. We often think of reading as a cerebral activity concerned with the abstract—with thoughts and ideas, tone and themes, metaphors and motifs. As far as our brains are concerned, however, text is a tangible part of the physical world we inhabit. In fact, the brain essentially regards letters as physical objects because it does not really have another way of understanding them. As Wolf explains in her book Proust and the Squid , we are not born with brain circuits dedicated to reading. After all, we did not invent writing until relatively recently in our evolutionary history, around the fourth millennium B.C. So the human brain improvises a brand-new circuit for reading by weaving together various regions of neural tissue devoted to other abilities, such as spoken language, motor coordination and vision. Some of these repurposed brain regions are specialized for object recognition —they are networks of neurons that help us instantly distinguish an apple from an orange, for example, yet classify both as fruit. Just as we learn that certain features—roundness, a twiggy stem, smooth skin—characterize an apple, we learn to recognize each letter by its particular arrangement of lines, curves and hollow spaces. Some of the earliest forms of writing, such as Sumerian cuneiform , began as characters shaped like the objects they represented —a person's head, an ear of barley, a fish. Some researchers see traces of these origins in modern alphabets: C as crescent moon, S as snake. Especially intricate characters—such as Chinese hanzi and Japanese kanji —activate motor regions in the brain involved in forming those characters on paper: The brain literally goes through the motions of writing when reading, even if the hands are empty. Researchers recently discovered that the same thing happens in a milder way when some people read cursive. Beyond treating individual letters as physical objects, the human brain may also perceive a text in its entirety as a kind of physical landscape. When we read, we construct a mental representation of the text in which meaning is anchored to structure. The exact nature of such representations remains unclear, but they are likely similar to the mental maps we create of terrain—such as mountains and trails—and of man-made physical spaces, such as apartments and offices. Both anecdotally and in published studies , people report that when trying to locate a particular piece of written information they often remember where in the text it appeared. We might recall that we passed the red farmhouse near the start of the trail before we started climbing uphill through the forest; in a similar way, we remember that we read about Mr. Darcy rebuffing Elizabeth Bennett on the bottom of the left-hand page in one of the earlier chapters. In most cases, paper books have more obvious topography than onscreen text. An open paperback presents a reader with two clearly defined domains—the left and right pages—and a total of eight corners with which to orient oneself. A reader can focus on a single page of a paper book without losing sight of the whole text: one can see where the book begins and ends and where one page is in relation to those borders. One can even feel the thickness of the pages read in one hand and pages to be read in the other. Turning the pages of a paper book is like leaving one footprint after another on the trail—there's a rhythm to it and a visible record of how far one has traveled. All these features not only make text in a paper book easily navigable, they also make it easier to form a coherent mental map of the text. In contrast, most screens, e-readers, smartphones and tablets interfere with intuitive navigation of a text and inhibit people from mapping the journey in their minds. A reader of digital text might scroll through a seamless stream of words, tap forward one page at a time or use the search function to immediately locate a particular phrase—but it is difficult to see any one passage in the context of the entire text. As an analogy, imagine if Google Maps allowed people to navigate street by individual street, as well as to teleport to any specific address, but prevented them from zooming out to see a neighborhood, state or country. Although e-readers like the Kindle and tablets like the iPad re-create pagination—sometimes complete with page numbers, headers and illustrations—the screen only displays a single virtual page: it is there and then it is gone. Instead of hiking the trail yourself, the trees, rocks and moss move past you in flashes with no trace of what came before and no way to see what lies ahead. "The implicit feel of where you are in a physical book turns out to be more important than we realized," says Abigail Sellen of Microsoft Research Cambridge in England and co-author of The Myth of the Paperless Office . "Only when you get an e-book do you start to miss it. I don't think e-book manufacturers have thought enough about how you might visualize where you are in a book." At least a few studies suggest that by limiting the way people navigate texts, screens impair comprehension. In a study published in January 2013 Anne Mangen of the University of Stavanger in Norway and her colleagues asked 72 10th-grade students of similar reading ability to study one narrative and one expository text, each about 1,500 words in length. Half the students read the texts on paper and half read them in pdf files on computers with 15-inch liquid-crystal display (LCD) monitors. Afterward, students completed reading-comprehension tests consisting of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, during which they had access to the texts. Students who read the texts on computers performed a little worse than students who read on paper. Based on observations during the study, Mangen thinks that students reading pdf files had a more difficult time finding particular information when referencing the texts. Volunteers on computers could only scroll or click through the pdfs one section at a time, whereas students reading on paper could hold the text in its entirety in their hands and quickly switch between different pages. Because of their easy navigability, paper books and documents may be better suited to absorption in a text. "The ease with which you can find out the beginning, end and everything inbetween and the constant connection to your path, your progress in the text, might be some way of making it less taxing cognitively, so you have more free capacity for comprehension," Mangen says. Supporting this research, surveys indicate that screens and e-readers interfere with two other important aspects of navigating texts: serendipity and a sense of control. People report that they enjoy flipping to a previous section of a paper book when a sentence surfaces a memory of something they read earlier, for example, or quickly scanning ahead on a whim. People also like to have as much control over a text as possible—to highlight with chemical ink, easily write notes to themselves in the margins as well as deform the paper however they choose. Because of these preferences—and because getting away from multipurpose screens improves concentration—people consistently say that when they really want to dive into a text, they read it on paper. In a 2011 survey of graduate students at National Taiwan University, the majority reported browsing a few paragraphs online before printing out the whole text for more in-depth reading. A 2008 survey of millennials (people born between 1980 and the early 2000s) at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island concluded that, "when it comes to reading a book, even they prefer good, old-fashioned print". And in a 2003 study conducted at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, nearly 80 percent of 687 surveyed students preferred to read text on paper as opposed to on a screen in order to "understand it with clarity". Surveys and consumer reports also suggest that the sensory experiences typically associated with reading—especially tactile experiences—matter to people more than one might assume. Text on a computer, an e-reader and—somewhat ironically—on any touch-screen device is far more intangible than text on paper. Whereas a paper book is made from pages of printed letters fixed in a particular arrangement, the text that appears on a screen is not part of the device's hardware—it is an ephemeral image. When reading a paper book, one can feel the paper and ink and smooth or fold a page with one's fingers; the pages make a distinctive sound when turned; and underlining or highlighting a sentence with ink permanently alters the paper's chemistry. So far, digital texts have not satisfyingly replicated this kind of tactility (although some companies are innovating, at least with keyboards ). Paper books also have an immediately discernible size, shape and weight. We might refer to a hardcover edition of War and Peace as a hefty tome or a paperback Heart of Darkness as a slim volume. In contrast, although a digital text has a length—which is sometimes represented with a scroll or progress bar—it has no obvious shape or thickness. An e-reader always weighs the same, regardless of whether you are reading Proust's magnum opus or one of Hemingway's short stories. Some researchers have found that these discrepancies create enough " haptic dissonance " to dissuade some people from using e-readers. People expect books to look, feel and even smell a certain way; when they do not, reading sometimes becomes less enjoyable or even unpleasant. For others, the convenience of a slim portable e-reader outweighs any attachment they might have to the feel of paper books. Exhaustive reading Although many old and recent studies conclude that people understand what they read on paper more thoroughly than what they read on screens, the differences are often small. Some experiments, however, suggest that researchers should look not just at immediate reading comprehension, but also at long-term memory. In a 2003 study Kate Garland of the University of Leicester and her colleagues asked 50 British college students to read study material from an introductory economics course either on a computer monitor or in a spiral-bound booklet. After 20 minutes of reading Garland and her colleagues quizzed the students with multiple-choice questions. Students scored equally well regardless of the medium, but differed in how they remembered the information. Psychologists distinguish between remembering something—which is to recall a piece of information along with contextual details, such as where, when and how one learned it—and knowing something, which is feeling that something is true without remembering how one learned the information. Generally, remembering is a weaker form of memory that is likely to fade unless it is converted into more stable, long-term memory that is "known" from then on. When taking the quiz, volunteers who had read study material on a monitor relied much more on remembering than on knowing, whereas students who read on paper depended equally on remembering and knowing. Garland and her colleagues think that students who read on paper learned the study material more thoroughly more quickly; they did not have to spend a lot of time searching their minds for information from the text, trying to trigger the right memory—they often just knew the answers. Other researchers have suggested that people comprehend less when they read on a screen because screen-based reading is more physically and mentally taxing than reading on paper. E-ink is easy on the eyes because it reflects ambient light just like a paper book, but computer screens, smartphones and tablets like the iPad shine light directly into people's faces. Depending on the model of the device, glare, pixilation and flickers can also tire the eyes. LCDs are certainly gentler on eyes than their predecessor, cathode-ray tubes (CRT), but prolonged reading on glossy self-illuminated screens can cause eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision. Such symptoms are so common among people who read on screens—affecting around 70 percent of people who work long hours in front of computers—that the American Optometric Association officially recognizes computer vision syndrome . Erik Wästlund of Karlstad University in Sweden has conducted some particularly rigorous research on whether paper or screens demand more physical and cognitive resources. In one of his experiments 72 volunteers completed the Higher Education Entrance Examination READ test—a 30-minute, Swedish-language reading-comprehension exam consisting of multiple-choice questions about five texts averaging 1,000 words each. People who took the test on a computer scored lower and reported higher levels of stress and tiredness than people who completed it on paper. In another set of experiments 82 volunteers completed the READ test on computers, either as a paginated document or as a continuous piece of text. Afterward researchers assessed the students' attention and working memory, which is a collection of mental talents that allow people to temporarily store and manipulate information in their minds. Volunteers had to quickly close a series of pop-up windows, for example, sort virtual cards or remember digits that flashed on a screen. Like many cognitive abilities, working memory is a finite resource that diminishes with exertion. Although people in both groups performed equally well on the READ test, those who had to scroll through the continuous text did not do as well on the attention and working-memory tests. Wästlund thinks that scrolling—which requires a reader to consciously focus on both the text and how they are moving it—drains more mental resources than turning or clicking a page, which are simpler and more automatic gestures. A 2004 study conducted at the University of Central Florida reached similar conclusions. Attitude adjustments An emerging collection of studies emphasizes that in addition to screens possibly taxing people's attention more than paper, people do not always bring as much mental effort to screens in the first place. Subconsciously, many people may think of reading on a computer or tablet as a less serious affair than reading on paper. Based on a detailed 2005 survey of 113 people in northern California, Ziming Liu of San Jose State University concluded that people reading on screens take a lot of shortcuts—they spend more time browsing, scanning and hunting for keywords compared with people reading on paper, and are more likely to read a document once, and only once. When reading on screens, people seem less inclined to engage in what psychologists call metacognitive learning regulation—strategies such as setting specific goals, rereading difficult sections and checking how much one has understood along the way. In a 2011 experiment at the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, college students took multiple-choice exams about expository texts either on computers or on paper. Researchers limited half the volunteers to a meager seven minutes of study time; the other half could review the text for as long as they liked. When under pressure to read quickly, students using computers and paper performed equally well. When managing their own study time, however, volunteers using paper scored about 10 percentage points higher. Presumably, students using paper approached the exam with a more studious frame of mind than their screen-reading peers, and more effectively directed their attention and working memory. Perhaps, then, any discrepancies in reading comprehension between paper and screens will shrink as people's attitudes continue to change. The star of "A Magazine Is an iPad That Does Not Work" is three-and-a-half years old today and no longer interacts with paper magazines as though they were touchscreens, her father says. Perhaps she and her peers will grow up without the subtle bias against screens that seems to lurk in the minds of older generations. In current research for Microsoft, Sellen has learned that many people do not feel much ownership of e-books because of their impermanence and intangibility: "They think of using an e-book, not owning an e-book," she says. Participants in her studies say that when they really like an electronic book, they go out and get the paper version. This reminds Sellen of people's early opinions of digital music, which she has also studied. Despite initial resistance, people love curating, organizing and sharing digital music today. Attitudes toward e-books may transition in a similar way, especially if e-readers and tablets allow more sharing and social interaction than they currently do. Books on the Kindle can only be loaned once , for example. To date, many engineers, designers and user-interface experts have worked hard to make reading on an e-reader or tablet as close to reading on paper as possible. E-ink resembles chemical ink and the simple layout of the Kindle's screen looks like a page in a paperback. Likewise, Apple's iBooks attempts to simulate the overall aesthetic of paper books, including somewhat realistic page-turning. Jaejeung Kim of KAIST Institute of Information Technology Convergence in South Korea and his colleagues have designed an innovative and unreleased interface that makes iBooks seem primitive. When using their interface, one can see the many individual pages one has read on the left side of the tablet and all the unread pages on the right side, as if holding a paperback in one's hands. A reader can also flip bundles of pages at a time with a flick of a finger. But why, one could ask, are we working so hard to make reading with new technologies like tablets and e-readers so similar to the experience of reading on the very ancient technology that is paper? Why not keep paper and evolve screen-based reading into something else entirely? Screens obviously offer readers experiences that paper cannot. Scrolling may not be the ideal way to navigate a text as long and dense as Moby Dick , but the New York Times , Washington Post , ESPN and other media outlets have created beautiful, highly visual articles that depend entirely on scrolling and could not appear in print in the same way. Some Web comics and infographics turn scrolling into a strength rather than a weakness. Similarly, Robin Sloan has pioneered the tap essay for mobile devices. The immensely popular interactive Scale of the Universe tool could not have been made on paper in any practical way. New e-publishing companies like Atavist offer tablet readers long-form journalism with embedded interactive graphics, maps, timelines, animations and sound tracks. And some writers are pairing up with computer programmers to produce ever more sophisticated interactive fiction and nonfiction in which one's choices determine what one reads, hears and sees next. When it comes to intensively reading long pieces of plain text, paper and ink may still have the advantage. But text is not the only way to read.

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The Great Book Debate: Paperbacks vs. EBooks

Welcome Nerds, Bookworms, Bibliophiles, Errant Readers, Casual Observers, etc. Pick your team and cheer loudly.

Welcome to the Great Book Debate. In one corner, we have the heavyweight champion world-famous Paperbacks , and in the other corner, the animated, portable, price-friendly, and durable eBook !

Thank you, thank you! We have gathered here to find out which version and holder of our beloved Books are better.

In my opinion, this debate should not even happen because why in Booklore do you want to compare an Apple and an Orange? They both have their usefulness, benefits, and uniqueness. However, readers are peculiar, inquisitive, and meddlesome, so here we are.

From here, we’ll look at each version, a bit of their history, pros, and cons, and find out which one is the best.

Paperbacks are books with a cover made of thick flexible paper binding. The cover can be laminated with either gloss or matt lamination. Its average life span is about 10-20 years. They were 1st introduced in 1935 by Alan Lane, who started Penguin books. However, some would like to claim it was Charles Dickens with the introduction of the Pickwick papers. Whatever you believe, it helped make the cost of buying books cheaper for readers when compared with buying hardcover books.

They provide a high-quality option for reduced weight and cost, making it a win-win for both the publishers and the readers. Paperbacks are easy to carry around; don’t even get me started on how that has been saving lives and increasing knowledge.

Have you ever fallen in love with a book just because of the cover(I did with this book )? Books look nice in your hands, almost like ornaments comparable to metallic jewelry. You also get to add comments, thoughts, and ideas all over the medium. (pro tip: use a pencil ) It even helps with your health as it helps to improve memory and reduces stress. I remember studying for exams and was seriously stressed out. I just wanted to unwind and calm down, so I and the irawo (the moon) would binge read the complete Harry Potter books, and believe me, it helped. I always felt better and ready to face studying again.

It also brings back memories. Remember those notes you made in the books? Nostagic . And beautiful . They produce attractive bookshelves ( have you ever seen an ugly bookshelf? ) And which bookworm can ever forget the divine smell of books ? Okay, paperback supporters, hold it. That’s enough ! The eBook team is about to make a grand entrance; let’s make way for the Electronic King. Ebooks were propelled into the limelight in 1971 by Michael Hart, who created the first-ever ebook after deciding on an impulse to type the US Declaration of Independence into a computer. In 1997 E-Ink Corporation created a technology that would let digital screens reflect light just like ordinary paper without the need for a backlight. The Rocket eBook became the first commercial e-reader device to use this technology which several other manufacturers eventually used to create new eReader devices, including Amazon Kindle, which was released in 2007.

So what’s so cool about eBooks?

One device can house thousands of books. You get to carry a library wherever you go and change your mind on what you want to read and when you want to read it. Think about the amount of shelf space you are saving. It is impossible to lose as it can be downloaded on multiple devices which is convenient if you are on the road and it can also be read offline. If by some mistake you lose it, you can always re-download the book. It encourages you to read more as you get to download new books by the same authors or series, which can be annoying if you can’t find the remaining series.

EBooks can be easily updated to include up-to-date information.

You can share with as many people at once, although DRM (Digital Rights Management) is putting a comma to that.

It also helps to save time and money. Money that could have been used to travel to buy books is minimized.

In addition, there are interactive elements embedded with audio and videos. External links can be included for further information about the book. It is easy on the eyes as you can adjust the brightness; change the text’s fonts, so reading in the dark is much easier.

You can mark and quote sentences, save your page, and search using keywords with ebooks. It cannot go out of stock as it is always available.

They also have the read-aloud feature, allowing you time to do other things while listening to your book. It is environmentally friendly, reduces carbon footprint, and is affordable in the long run. With ebooks, you can mark passages, save pages and search text.

Great, so we have analyzed their pros and uniqueness – let the battle begin!

Do we have a winner? Not really. The truth be told, it depends on the reader. The main thing is to be able to adapt when the need calls for it. You can have your attractive bookshelf and smell the pages whenever you want but when you want convenience and you are on the road, being able to read an ebook on the go is a plus for me.

So get a collection of books you treasure and keep the rest on the cloud, a win-win for everyone .

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Home » Blog » Print 101 » EBooks vs. Printed Books: Which Are Better?

EBooks vs. Printed Books: Which Are Better?

In the case of eBooks vs. printed books, have you ever wondered which is better? The answer may surprise you.

Some people might think that whether books or eBooks are superior is an open and shut case. But then again, the fact that you are reading this indicates that there are two sides to this debate.

As a printing company, we certainly like books, but at the same time, we strive to innovate and embrace change, so this requires us to look carefully at the arguments both ways.

First off, in measuring books against eBooks, it is important to define which factors we are comparing. The arguments over the superiority of books or eBooks consist of several categories:

• Convenience and Ease of Use

Retention of Information/Learning

Impact on the environment.

There are good arguments on both sides for all categories listed above. Without getting too academic, here is a short list of pros and cons for eBooks vs. books.

EBooks vs. Printed Books: Discover the Better Option

Ease of use.

eBooks can be used in most places, so long as you can keep the reading devices charged. Most eReaders can even be used to read in the dark. It is also convenient to download an eBook since you can have it in seconds as long as there is Wi-Fi or a good cellular signal.

Most eBooks will hold your place, so whenever you open your device, you can automatically see where you stopped reading. eBooks can also contain thousands of books at all times, allowing you to carry an entire library with you.

Books require no power to operate, so you can read them in any environment with light. You don’t need power to “recharge” a book. You can also easily write, highlight passages, or dog-ear pages in a book, although some book lovers may frown upon doing so.

Many users report having more eye strain reading digital editions than physical books. In addition, it is much easier to work with multiple books and sources (for example, to write a research paper) when dealing with physical books. Is it also usually easier to keep track of specific pages or passages in physical books since the pages never change.

There are some specialized situations where eBooks outperform physical books. Some of this depends on the personal preference of individual readers. In addition, some readers with physical limitations, such as poor eyesight or dyslexia, may find electronic text easier since they can magnify the font and enjoy some of the interactive features of eBooks.

Many studies confirm that reading comprehension is better with physical books than with eBooks. Although young people may read more quickly on an eReader, the speed and potential distractions of links, scrolling, and advertisements usually mean people remember and retain what they are reading better in physical books. Many readers also enjoy the touch and feel of holding and turning the pages of a book.

Taking it at face value, you would think that eBooks win when it comes to the environment. However, evaluating the environmental impact of books and eBooks is complicated. For one, it depends on how many books you read on an eReader.

eReaders take a lot more carbon to produce than books, so studies indicate you need to read between twenty-two and one hundred books on an eReader to be more environmentally conscious than simply reading hard copy books. In addition, you need to consider that eReaders need to be recycled properly, have to recharge regularly, and contain some toxic metals requiring proper disposal.

When you buy a book, you can get it new or used, and used books are certainly more environmentally conscious than new. Borrowing books from a library is even more environmentally friendly. In addition, when you are done with a book, you can sell it or gift it to the next reader… a feat which is nigh impossible with eBooks. Lastly, if a book reaches the end of its life or falls into disrepair, you can recycle the book.

Additionally, many printing companies who produce books follow “green” printing practices that prevent harmful chemicals or excessive amounts of waste from entering the environment.

Typically, eBooks are priced lower than new paper books. This reflects the fact that there are no printing costs associated with creating eBooks.

You don’t truly own eBooks when you buy them. For instance, if your eReader breaks or your account shuts down, you lose all the books you purchased.

Physical books can be borrowed, gifted, or sold. You can also borrow books easily from the library. Also, in the case of a book that has special value to a reader or is an antique, it can be retained for a lifetime without worrying about eReader compatibility or eBook formatting. Lastly, books have some decorative value as they are placed on bookshelves for later use.

Can You Print An EBook?

Have you written and self-published an eBook, and then you realized that you’d like to have physical copies of your book? Do you want to sell copies or distribute them to friends, family, or business associates? If so, you’re probably wondering, “Can you print an eBook?”

If you’re an eBook author who wants to print physical copies of your eBook project, keep in mind that the process is more complicated than simply pressing the “print” button on your computer. Digital books typically consist of dynamic computer files which allow the reader to change print size, zoom in on images, leave virtual bookmarks, highlight passages, and otherwise interact with their book. Files used to print books, on the other hand, are typically static files such as PDF files created using Adobe InDesign .

When considering eBook printing, think about the following challenges.

The eBook printing process is not as simple as saving your eBook as a PDF file and then printing it, as you must keep considerations such as bleed in mind. Bleed, which consists of an image running off the edge of a page, is a key aspect of printing products such as books.

After all of the pages in a book are printed, they are then cut down to a uniform size, and the bleed is the extra space at the edges of the page that is cut off. Adding bleed in print files is vital, as it ensures that the pages in the printed book will contain correctly-sized margins and that all pages will be the exact same dimensions.

Typesetting

Typesetting is also a serious consideration when trying to print eBook files. The code for some characters in eBook files does not easily transfer to static file types, fonts might not be compatible, and file conversions can alter how the text is arranged on the page.

As a result, you might need to spend hours or days manually typesetting the entire book, finding custom characters, and ensuring that every line is exactly as you intend it. If you’ve ever had to typeset — or re-typeset — a book, you know that this process is a headache!

Legal Considerations

Many eBooks are protected intellectual property. As such, be sure that you have the proper permission to print an eBook, whether you are the author or not. Many publishing houses control the copyright to their books, so contact them with any questions before printing an eBook.

If you are self-publishing your own book, this task might be easier. Before printing an eBook, consult with a lawyer who is knowledgeable about copyright law and digital rights management and can help you navigate the process.

The Print Authority Can Print Your eBook for You

If you’re feeling discouraged, we have good news: The Print Authority can print your eBook for you and take care of all of the potential pitfalls we’ve described! Our expert team has experience converting eBook files to stable PDFs that contain the correct bleed and which can be easily printed. We convert eBooks into professionally-printed paper books with a variety of bindings , letting you sit back, relax, and enjoy your beautiful finished paper book.

Which Should You Use?

There are obvious pros and cons for both eBooks vs. books, and both media are in high demand. Interestingly, recent articles point out that sales of both books and eBooks are increasing .

Additionally, there are more new ways of printing and distributing books than ever before. Self-publishing is extremely common, and there are more niche publications than ever.

If you need help with designing or printing a book, please don’t hesitate to contact us at The Print Authority . We have decades of experience and will be glad to help!